The RBA Initiative uses different methodologies to engage and educate school children on antimicrobial resistance. One of its key methodologies is the use of arts and crafts like songs, traditional dance, skits, drawings, storytelling dramas, and other sets of fun activities. Moreover, further motivation for active participation is encouraged through the RBA Initiative AMR arts and crafts competition.
More recently, the RBA Initiative realized a challenge of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure for most of the schools across the nation. The organization began educating school children on better handwashing practices and sensitization hand hygiene and handed over a washing station and a water tank to the winner of the 2020–2021 RBA Initiative’s AMR Arts and Crafts competition as part of practical support.
Mkonze secondary school emerged victorious with the most points for the 2020–2021 RBA Initiative AMR arts & crafts competition and grabbed the prize of a new handwashing station and water tank. The head of Mkonze Secondary School, Mr. Andrew Rumishael, explained how the RBA Initiative’s AMR school clubs project is making positive change not only through AMR education but also through improving WASH infrastructures. Mr. Rumishael said, “We are very grateful for the handwashing station that has been handed over to us. This station is a great help for hand hygiene. We have not only benefited from AMR education but also WASH infrastructure. This project has brought us productive things.” He further explained how the AMR education provided through this project benefited the community as a whole through trained students.
This is an example of how the mix of fun and rewarding campaigns is changing the public health behaviors of many in Tanzania.